Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS) concentration
This test measures the level of dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS), a hormone produced by the adrenal glands that plays a role in sex hormone production and overall health.
["DHEAS helps assess adrenal gland function and hormone balance."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 55474-1
- Short code
- DHEA BS SerPl-sCnc
- Synonyms
- DHEA BS SerPl-sCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 135
- Ref high
- 980
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 82626
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why Is This Test Done?
Your healthcare provider may order a DHEAS test to evaluate adrenal gland health, especially if you have symptoms like fatigue, weight changes, or hormonal imbalances. It can also be used in diagnosing conditions like adrenal insufficiency or to monitor treatment for conditions affecting hormone production.
What Does the Test Involve?
A blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. The blood is processed to separate serum or plasma, where the DHEAS hormone is measured using a sensitive laboratory method.
What Should You Expect Before the Test?
No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to fast for a few hours before the test if instructed by your provider. Avoid smoking or consuming certain medications that could affect hormone levels for a short time before the test.
What Are Common Reasons for Testing?
DHEAS testing is often done to investigate symptoms related to hormonal imbalances, such as low energy, irregular menstrual cycles, or signs of adrenal dysfunction. It may also be part of a broader evaluation for conditions like Cushing’s syndrome, adrenal tumors, or congenital adrenal hyperplasia.
Reference range
NCBI: DHEA-S Male 135-980 µg/dL; Female 30-260 µg/dLN/A
No special preparation usually required. Stay well hydrated. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
DHEAS levels can provide insight into adrenal function and help diagnose or monitor conditions affecting hormone production. Low levels may indicate adrenal insufficiency, while high levels could suggest adrenal tumors or other hormonal disorders. Always discuss results with your healthcare provider, as they will consider your symptoms and medical history for accurate interpretation.
Short name
DHEAS (Serum/Plasma)
Frequently asked questions
What does a DHEAS test measure?
Can diet or medications affect DHEAS levels?
Is fasting required for this test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy